Tornado Safety Tips
Based on recent trends, about 1,300 tornadoes hit the United States yearly. These violent funnels can rip a town apart in minutes. As tornado season approaches, you can protect yourself and your family with these tornado safety tips!
Before a tornado
- Identify a safe room in your house. This room should be free of windows and away from outside walls.
Build an emergency kit and make a family communication plan. Make sure your kit includes non-perishable food, water bottles, a weather radio, batteries, flashlights, and first aid supplies. Also, make sure your family knows where to meet in case you get separated in the storm.
Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or the local news to stay up to date on developing weather, and make sure you know the warning signs of a tornado.
During a tornado
Go to your pre-designated safe room.
Get under a sturdy table and cover your neck and head with heavy blankets.
If outside, try to find a nearby office building or store. If no shelter is available, take cover in a stationary vehicle, and make sure to cover your head and neck to avoid debris and glass.
If outside, DO NOT get under a bridge or overpass. You are safer in a low, flat location.
After a tornado
If you are trapped under debris, do not move around or kick up dust. Hit a pipe or wall to alert rescuers to your location.
Listen to local officials for information and updates.
Call or text your family and loved ones to check on their safety.
Watch for debris and downed power lines, and remain out of damaged buildings until officials indicate it is safe.
Do not attempt to remove heavy debris by yourself.
Take pictures of the damage to your property for insurance claims, and do what you can to prevent further damage. For example, laying a tarp on your roof.
Follow these safety tips to best protect yourself and your family against the danger of tornadoes. For more information on how you can keep your family safe visit www.redcross.org.